One book reviewed here has received one of the highest awards a new author can receive, especially if that author is Canadian. The Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Emerging Artist Awards is among Canada’s most generous art awards program, with each recipient receiving a medal and $10,000 for their arts career.

Susan Green, Chair of the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Arts Awards, said, “Ten thousand dollars to an emerging artist is a catalyst for great things. We’ve seen careers blossom in previous recipients and we know today’s award will strengthen these artists and Alberta’s performing, literary, and visual arts culture in the process.”

Lieutenant Governor Ethell said, “These artists represent the best of a community that challenges, enlightens, and entertains us. Creativity of this magnitude is infectious.”

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The Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Arts Awards Foundation has established a program of awards for emerging artists to support and encourage promising artists, early in their careers, while also serving to raise the profile of the arts in Alberta.

Beginning in 2008, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Emerging Artist Awards have been awarded every second year,. Each Award consists of $10,000 and a medal. Every two years, up to ten prizes may be awarded, but only one in each category.

Winners go through an adjudication process, beginning with an application. Only those Emerging Alberta Artists who meet the eligibility criteria may make application for the Award. Appraisals are required from two established artists who are in a position to provide the Foundation with a candid assessment of the Applicant’s current accomplishments and potential to develop.

Here is what Ms. Robinso had to say about her award and the exciting day that went with it:

“This was the most amazing day of my writing career! The prestige and recognition of receiving this award is beyond description. I am honored and humbled.

As most of you know, my first book took 9 years to find a publisher. During that time I can’t say that I was never discouraged, but I can say that I always believed in myself and my writing ability.

The path to becoming a published author is not an easy venture, but it is an adventure. I wouldn’t change any of those baby steps it took for me to get there because now I totally understand what all the hard work and years add up to for me.

Thank you to everyone who supports me in my writing endeavors and to those who have encouraged me along the way.

Thank you to the two professionals that had to submit an appraisal of my work for this award: Amy Malo and Gisela Felsberg. You both must have said something amazing!”